Matthew is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #123 in 2021 with 472 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1997 with 7,443 births ranking #6. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 93.6%. In 2021, approximately 1 in every 625 boys born was named Matthew. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
Matthew is a major biblical classic meaning gift of God. It has stayed popular for generations because it feels stable, kind, and widely recognisable.
The name spread through the New Testament and Christian tradition, especially through Saint Matthew the apostle and evangelist. Its longevity gives it a dependable, cross-generational quality.